Before fostering, we already had a very full life – two cats, a small apartment, and busy work schedules – and we weren’t sure how fostering a dog would fit. It turned out to be far more manageable, and far more rewarding, than we expected.

Watching our foster dog decompress, gain confidence, and start to show their personality was incredibly special. Small milestones – learning to lay on a soft bed for the first time, trusting new people, enjoying routines – reminded us how much stability and patience can change a dog’s life.

Fostering fit into our lives more naturally than we imagined, and knowing we played a role in helping a dog move one step closer to their forever home made every effort worth it.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering but worried your life was already too full, we encourage you to try. Even a temporary home can make a lifelong difference.

In 2004, I opened my home to my first foster dog. I had no idea then that this one small decision would grow into a life-changing journey—for them and for me.

Since that first day, I’ve fostered over 300 animals. Each one came with a story—many scared, neglected, or abused. Some didn’t trust people. Some had never known kindness. All of them needed someone to believe in them.

Fostering isn’t about having a perfect schedule or unlimited time. Like many people, I’ve always had a full life—work, responsibilities, and the daily rush we all know too well. But I learned something important: you don’t need a perfect life to save one—you just need a willing heart.

What I give my foster animals is simple, but powerful: love, patience, structure, and gentle training. And what they give me in return is something I can’t fully put into words—healing, purpose, and joy. There is no feeling like watching a frightened animal slowly begin to trust, seeing their personality emerge, and then finally watching them walk out the door to their forever home. Every goodbye is emotional—but it’s also a victory. It means another life is safe, loved, and no longer alone.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering but felt “too busy,” I want you to know: Your time, your home, and your heart can change a life.

I started fostering with Better World Rescue a few years ago after a friend introduced me, and since then I’ve fostered about a dozen cats—including a few bottle babies and some with health issues. It’s easily one of the most rewarding things I’ve done. I love seeing sick or shy kittens start to heal, come out of their shell, and show off their weird little personalities. The BWR community is kind and supportive, and I feel very lucky to be a foster!

Fostering has been a long time goal of mine but always I thought “it’s not the right time”. I finally decided there will never be a perfect time so let’s just do this! I’ve long had a passion for animals and their care and really wanted to make a difference saving lives. My fostering journey started with a kitten left at the shelter that wasn’t more than a day old. We bottle fed her and watched her grow. Unfortunately she became very sick and nearly died at one point, but thanks to the rescue and a week in the hospital she went on to live a healthy, happy life! We moved on to dogs and started with a puppy with terrible mange. When I saw her awful skin condition I knew I could help her and quickly signed up to save her. She found a home as soon as she was medically cleared and thankfully just down the road from me and I made a wonderful friend out of it too. Since having Rosie, there have been several other animals. Each one with its own story. Each one a wonderful pet deserving of life. Each time they find a home I tell myself, “I’ll take a break from fostering.” Sadly, rescue takes no breaks so I continue to say “yes.” Saying “yes” saves lives and I do believe it’s my calling. It’s so rewarding to stay in touch with adopters and I’ve made some great friends in the process. I urge you, if you have some love, shelter, and just a tiny bit of time, there is no time like NOW to say “yes” to fostering.